I agree that discussion of file formats does not belong on LSTSRV-L,
but let's not invent a new list if it's not needed.  What's wrong
with TRANS-L?  The following is from LISTSERV GROUPS:
 
List: TRANS-L@BITNIC
Coordinator: BITNET Network Information Center (INFO@BITNIC)
 
  TRANSPORT: Issues related to the transfer of files among VM, MVS, and
  RSCS-emulating systems: conventions for identifying file formats
  compatible and incompatible formats among systems, suggestions for
  a "Least Common Denominator" standard for file transfer, and
  implementation implications for such standards.